New Half-Life 2: Episode One details

Following our story last week confirming the development of Half-Life 2: Episode Two, more details have emerged about the first expansion, formerly known as Half-Life 2: Aftermath.

In their weekly update, Valve briefly discuss elements of the story for Half-Life 2: Episode One, as Aftermath is now known:

As we've mentioned before, we've been hard at work on the continuation of Half-Life 2 for some time now. Soon, as part of the upcoming Half-Life 2: Episode One, you'll find out about what happened to the Citadel after the end of HL2, what happened to your nemesis Breen, and how Alyx managed to survive the explosion at the game's end. You'll also learn a lot more about Alyx, since nearly the entire episode is spent with her at your side.

During the development of Half-Life 2, we at Valve were frustrated at how long it took us (six years!) to ship the game. With that in mind , the decision was made to try an episodic approach to the next Half-Life products, each designed to reveal new story, gameplay, and the latest Source technology in four to six hour experiences.

Some gamers have raised an eyebrow at the fact that Episode One will feature only four to six hours of gameplay. However, it is worth remembering that it will only cost US$19.99 (approx £12) and so still delivers comparable value for money compared to seeing two or three films at the cinema. Add in the impressive HDR lighting and Developer Commentary from Half-Life 2: Lost Coast and things don't really look so bad, do they?

To get your juices flowing, Valve has released a new screenshot from the game. There are just eight weeks until the game's release on 24th April, and we are counting the days (that would be 56 then - Ed). In the meantime, CVG has posted the second part of their interview with Robin Walker - worth a read if you're desperate to know more about the game.